Why Mohammed Shami is Absent from England T20Is: Here's the Reason

 

Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, who recently returned to the Indian squad after over 400 days, has yet to make an appearance in the ongoing T20I series against England. Despite his proven credentials, Shami has been sidelined, with the team management opting for Arshdeep Singh as the primary pacer. The decision has left fans and experts curious about the reasoning behind his exclusion.

 

According to reports, the Indian team management is taking a cautious approach with Shami, especially considering his injury history and the packed schedule ahead. After last playing in the 2023 ODI World Cup, Shami has been recovering and regaining fitness. With the ICC Champions Trophy around the corner, the focus is on keeping the experienced bowler fresh for the 50-over format.

 

Sources revealed that Shami is in excellent shape, having shed weight and bowled at full intensity during training. However, he has been deemed "not essential" for the T20 matches. "Shami has lost two kilograms since his injury recovery and is bowling at his best. He isn't required for the T20s but will be ready for the upcoming ODI series," a source told Times of India.

 

India batter Abhishek Sharma addressed Shami's absence during the first T20I in Kolkata, clarifying that the decision was purely strategic. "It’s the team management’s call based on conditions. Shami is fit, but this approach aligns with our planning," Sharma said.